2006-12-22 14:43:14 PST -- The 49ers were jolted today with news that wide receiver Antonio Bryant has been suspended four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy.

The suspension begins immediately, meaning Bryant will not be with the team when it plays the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday at Candlestick or in the regular-season finale Dec. 31 in Denver.

The suspension would extend to the post-season if the 49ers qualify for the playoffs. If not, Bryant would be forced to sit out the first two games of the 2007 season.

"It sucks," tight end Vernon Davis said. "I wish he was here playing with us. He's a big contributor. He's definitely a playmaker."

When Bryant was arrested Oct. 19 in San Mateo on suspicion of driving under the influence, speeding, reckless driving and resisting arrest, it apparently triggered the violation of the league's substance abuse policy.

A four-game suspension means Bryant was already at Stage Two of the league's substance abuse program, for unspecified reasons. A subsequent violation leads to a suspension, according to the policy.

"He takes responsibility for it," coach Mike Nolan said. "He was disappointed for a number of reasons. He felt he let the team down. ... I think our guys will rally around each other."

Nolan knew he was getting a volatile player with a history of misconduct when he signed the 25-year-old Bryant as a free agent from the Cleveland Browns on March 13. Bryant wore out his welcome in Dallas in 2004 when he tossed a soiled practice jersey at coach Bill Parcells, which quickly led to a trade to Cleveland.

Nolan had a run-in with Bryant in December when he disciplined the receiver for being five minutes late to a special teams meeting. Nolan's rebuke triggered a torrent of profanity by Bryant and the coach subsequently held the starting wide receiver out of the first offensive series of the Green Bay game on Dec. 10.

Despite his troublesome nature, Nolan said he is committed to having Bryant on the team next season. In 14 games this season Bryant has 40 receptions for 733 yards, three touchdowns. Bryant is tied for the league lead in yards-per-catch at 18.3 among players with 40 or more receptions.

"I've had people in the building say, 'Do you have regrets now?' " Nolan said. "No. This is something we'll look at down the road. We're not done with A.B. He's a part of this. I certainly don't regret the decision. I'm glad he's here."

However, when Bryant does return to the team, it will be on a "very short leash," Nolan said. "It's important he understand that."

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